WITH no firm offers forthcoming for the England international, Manchester United could take the shock step of sponsoring Nicky Butt's exit from the club.

The midfielder has accepted that his future lies away from Old Trafford after more than 10 years service and has been linked with moves to Newcastle, Birmingham and Aston Villa.

But with all three clubs unwilling to offer the é5 million asking price, United could face the option of either having a high earner languishing in the reserves or allowing him to leave on loan.

And the Reds could even help subsidise the 29-year-old's move, with reports suggesting that they will stump up é10,000 per week of the player's wages.

Such a move would no doubt prove unpopular as the Reds would effectively be paying to strengthen one of their rivals, while it would also be open to criticism should injury or suspension leave them short of cover later in the season.

But with a move for Wayne Rooney still a distinct possibility, United need to raise funds and lower their wage bill and the arrival of the brilliant 18-year-old would inevitably alleviate any grumblings over Butt's exit.

Should United pay for Butt's exit, or keep him as a squad player? Have your say.